Meldrum were appointed to construct a new store at Bedlington at the former site of a local authority care home.  The care home was demolished and the grounds remediated as part of the new build process. 

The design was changed by Meldrum from Lidl’s usual design of a concrete frame to a steel frame with a lightweight blockwork solution. This enabled a significant reduction in build time and the 120-tonne structural frame was erected in just three weeks – which was of huge benefit to the client.

The retail facility is very modern, and accommodates its own in-house bakery, baby changing facilities and stunning glazed frontage.  All finishes are of a very high quality and reflect the client’s vision for their brand.

Considerations were made as to the impact of the building design: the fully glass fronted façade maximises natural light whilst sensor controlled exterior sun blinds automatically operate to control the heat.

Externally, drainage attenuation systems were installed.  The project also incorporated creating 132 parking spaces and access routes to external delivery areas with dock levelling facilities for articulated vehicles.  The surrounding perimeter to the facility was maximised with the installation of retaining wall structures and innovative soil nailing techniques for bankside retention.